Home News World Haemophilia Day Walk: Lived experiences powerful tools for education, awareness ...
In recognition of World Haemophilia Day, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, on Sunday participated in a health walk organised by the Guyana Haemophilia Society, under the theme “Strive to Stay Alive”.
World Haemophilia Day will be observed this Thursday, April 17. This year’s World Haemophilia Day theme, “Access for All: Women and Girls Bleed Too”, focuses on women and girls, an often-overlooked demographic in the context of bleeding disorders.
The walk commenced at the Bank of Guyana and culminated at the Kingston Bandstand, where participants gathered for a closing ceremony.
Addressing the gathering of health professionals, patients, advocates, and stakeholders, Dr Anthony reaffirmed the Government of Guyana’s commitment to improving care, access, and awareness for individuals living with haemophilia and other rare blood disorders.
Among the many participants were Laurence Baksh, Head of the Guyana Haemophilia Society, and Dr Kamela Bemal, Haematologist at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
Reflecting on past engagements, the Minister acknowledged the dedicated efforts of advocates who have championed the cause of haemophilia patients.
“Years ago, when Laurence and Dr Bimal first shared the challenges facing persons with haemophilia, we made a commitment—not just to raise awareness—but to actively work toward improving their lives,” the Minister recalled.
While haemophilia more commonly affects males, the Minister referenced this year’s theme, and emphasised the importance of educating women, who are often carriers and can experience symptoms such as prolonged bleeding.
The theme for 2025 highlights the need for better healthcare and access to treatment for everyone with haemophilia.
“We must implement educational programmes to help women recognise when symptoms are abnormal and encourage early medical consultation,” he stated.
The Minister also highlighted several major infrastructure developments aimed at transforming the country’s healthcare system. Six new hospitals across the country are slated for completion by the end of the year each equipped with internal medicine departments, blood banks, and laboratory facilities.
“This expansion ensures that citizens no longer need to travel to Georgetown to access specialised care,” the Minister noted. “Access to quality healthcare will now be more evenly distributed across the country.”
In addition, a state-of-the-art 256-bed Maternal and Paediatric Hospital currently under construction at Ogle will host a range of subspecialties including haematology, enabling earlier diagnosis and intervention for rare diseases like haemophilia.
Addressing recent advancements in medical treatment, the Minister referenced cutting-edge therapies including monoclonal antibodies and gene therapy, some of which were approved internationally as recently as 2024. He acknowledged that while these treatments are currently expensive, prices are expected to fall as accessibility improves.
Guyana has already passed legislation to support innovative medical research and therapies, inviting pharmaceutical companies and research institutions to explore collaboration opportunities within the country.
“We have received expressions of interest, and we’re optimistic that Guyana will become a hub for research and possibly manufacturing of advanced therapies,” the Minister revealed.
Commending the efforts of local advocates, the Minister emphasised the importance of community engagement in raising awareness. He also encouraged patients and families to share their personal stories to help others identify potential symptoms early.
The Minister concluded by reaffirming his commitment to continued progress.
“We have come a long way, and I truly believe the future holds even greater promise for those living with haemophilia in Guyana”, he said.
